The University of Arkansas will celebrate Panhellenic Bid Day at noon Saturday, Aug. 15, at the historic Chi Omega Greek Theatre. The highly anticipated event will also be livestreamed on the U of A Greek Life Facebook page, allowing family and friends from near and far to join in the celebration.
"We are looking forward to welcoming a new class of members into our Greek Life community," said Parice S. Bowser, assistant vice chancellor for Greek Life and associate dean of students. "It is especially meaningful to be able to share this exciting moment with families who are unable to attend in person through our live Facebook broadcast."
Bid Day marks the culmination of a weeklong recruitment process that drew nearly 2,400 women this year, the largest Panhellenic sorority recruitment in university history. On Saturday morning, potential new members will gather at the Greek Theatre to receive invitations, known as bids, to join one of the university's 12 nationally recognized Panhellenic chapters. 
"Bid Day is truly the best day of the year," said Chloe Carter, Panhellenic president. "For many of these women, this is the moment they find their home away from home. They are joining communities that will support, encourage and celebrate them throughout their college journey."
Following the Bid Day ceremony, guests are invited to join chapters and new members as celebrations continue along Maple Street and in front of chapter houses. For safety and security, only active chapter members and new members will be permitted inside sorority houses during Bid Day festivities.
Staying Cool and Hydrated
With high temperatures and humidity expected, Panhellenic and Greek Life are taking additional measures to help participants and guests stay comfortable and safe throughout the day.
Cooling tent areas will be available throughout the event and will provide misting fans and water. Restrooms also will be available in the event area, along with emergency packs and umbrellas designated for emergency areas.
Attendees can scan the QR code provided with this release to access a map showing the locations of the cooling tent areas and the available resources, including misting fans, water, restrooms, emergency packs and umbrellas for emergency areas.
All attendees are strongly encouraged to dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather, eat before arriving, bring water and stay hydrated throughout the event. Attendees also should use the cooling areas as needed and remain aware of their surroundings throughout the festivities.
"This year's Bid Day is shaping up to be one of the best yet," Bowser said. "We are incredibly proud of our 12 award-winning chapters and the strong legacy of Greek Life at the University of Arkansas. Most importantly, we are excited to welcome new members into this community and celebrate this special milestone with them."
The U of A Police Department will implement road closures from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday to accommodate Bid Day activities and help ensure the safety of participants, families and spectators.
The following intersections will be closed to vehicle traffic: 
"From the Greek Theatre to Maple Street, we want Bid Day to be a memorable and enjoyable experience for everyone," Bowser said. "We encourage all attendees to remain aware of their surroundings, follow event and safety guidelines, and work together to ensure a safe celebration for our entire community."
There will also be a heavy law enforcement presence throughout the Bid Day festivities to help manage traffic, support crowd safety and assist with event operations. Attendees are encouraged to follow the direction of law enforcement and event personnel, remain aware of their surroundings, and help create a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
"Bid Day is one of the most exciting days of the year at the University of Arkansas," Carter said. "We are so excited to welcome our newest members and celebrate the beginning of their Greek Life experience. It's a wonderful time to Go Greek!"
The Charlie & Cappy Whiteside Greek Life Leadership Center